Search [Hardcover]

One of the ways, perhaps the most important way, I select Kindle books is on the basis of the reviews I read. That has worked very well for me in the past. But not this time. The reality about "Search" I didn't pay sufficient attention to was that it had only 3 reviews when I bought it. Mistake. I'm writing this review, my first, to let others know not everyone is thrilled with "Search".

"Search" is not a horrible book. It is generally well written and a good read, except when the authors attempt to add science lectures to the story. When they stick to the plot, "Search" is interesting and moves along at a good pace. So, what's my beef? I've been reading Science Fiction and Fantasy for more than fifty years, if "Search" belongs to the genre at all, it's only at the fringe. If I had read the various editorial reviews carefully, I might have guessed that. "Techno-thriller"? Yes. Science Fiction? Hardly. If you're looking for an SF, you may well be disappointed. If you expect an archaeologically themed techno-thriller, that's a different story.

To my way of thinking, as an SF fan, the end of "Search" was disappointing. While it did resolve the thriller aspect of the story, it left the more interesting issues raised by the book hanging. Frankly, I expect a compelling story line, but I also expect some interesting science fiction/speculation to be fleshed out. Which leads me to my last point. It is common practice, these days, for stories to span multiple books. It would be nice to be warned when that is the plan. "Search" reads like a book that is setting up a trilogy.

"Search" has a little something for everyone in it. A dash of Indiana Jones, a flavor of Graham Hancock, even a hint of Art Bell; they all can be found swirling around these pages. It's at times a fast paced thriller, a well thought out archeological mystery, and a compelling speculative history of mankind. It was refreshing to read a book that didn't involve the Templars or Illuminati for a change.

This is a novel that can be enjoyed on many different levels. It works very well as a straight-up adventure book - a perfect companion to pass the day away on the beach. There are exotic locations, lost treasures, and danger enough for the most demanding reader. If, however, you want to read deeper, it also works as an exploration on the nature of learning, and the place of knowledge in society.

On balance, I thoroughly enjoyed "Search". It's a book that will both entertain you and make you think. Good for the both the casual reader or the speculative history aficionado, there is much to sink your teeth into in this story. If you like your mysteries ancient, your societies secret, and your action pulse pounding - this is the book for you.

I have been an all-out converted fan of the Reeves-Stevens' since I read (and LOVED) their Star Trek novel, 'Federation'. Yeah, I KNOW what you're thinking: but I thought this was a techno-thriller?? Well...it IS. This husband-wife writing phenomenon have written a pretty amazing variety of novels over the years. They may best be remembered for their absolutely incredible Trek books (ALL of which are a HUGE cut above even the best *regular* Trek stories available) however, that all changed when they released 'Icefire' back in '99. Even Stephen King said it was amazing...and yes, he was 100% correct. Talk about a techno-thriller on steroids! They have since followed that up with several other great novels in the same vein (Quicksilver & Freefall), but I believe 'Search' is treading on entirely new ground for this couple.

At the heart of the story we have one world-class 'What If' conspiracy--of course I'm not gonna ruin it for you, but TRUST me, the story rocks. Ever since Dan Brown released the Da Vinci Code, there has been (literally) an over-abundance of similarly themed historical/regligious-themed thrillers, the VAST majority of which were obviously written to capitalize on the immediate craze without ANY regard to plot...most were about as deep as a teaspoon (if that...). Not so with 'Search'...not at ALL. At once we have multiple storylines all progressing along quite rapidly--most of which seem completely unrelated to one another--but never fear, they ALL tie together before long in what has GOT to be one of the more creative plot-lines I have read in quite some time. While I wouldn't necessarily describe the *Mystery* as 'more profound' than The Da Vinci Code, it certainly IS more so than what we discovered at the end of 'The Lost Symbol' (whose ending was ultimately a let-down if you ask me).

While NO living author (or dead for that matter) can write with the kinetic energy on the printed page like Matthew Reilly, there ARE a few authors who come pretty close. As far as realism is concerned, most blow Reilly out of the water, seeing as pretty much ALL of his books are wildly inventive, but all but impossible to swallow. 'Search', while more believable, certainly DOES require some hefty suspension of disbelief in order to get through--but then again, what techno-thriller doesn't more or less? I really would like to be more in-depth regarding the fabulously creative storyline, but one of my #1 pet peeves here at amazon are reviewers who take the time to spoil so much for unsuspecting readers who want nothing more than to just see if you liked what they were thinking of purchasing. I refuse to give away such detail...however, I WILL say this: if you are looking for a techno-thrilling, ass-kickin' adventure, look NO FURTHER than 'Search'. TRUST Me, however you get a copy of this great novel, it will definitely be money well spent. I can hardly wait to read it again.

› Go to Amazon.com to see all 12 reviews  4.0 out of 5 stars